When you stay at Jellystone Park™ Zion, the fun doesn’t stop at the park gates! Southern Utah is packed with exciting, kid-friendly attractions that turn every family getaway into an adventure. From splashing and hiking to exploring prehistoric wonders, here are the Top 5 adventures near Zion National Park that every kid will love.
1. Explore the Trails of Zion National Park
Just minutes from Jellystone Park™, Zion offers easy, kid-friendly hikes with stunning scenery.
Try these favorites:
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Riverside Walk – Paved and stroller-friendly, following the Virgin River.
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Lower Emerald Pools Trail – Short, shady, and ends at a waterfall.
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Canyon Overlook Trail – A short climb with big views (great for older kids).
Tip: visit early morning or late afternoon to beat the sun, then cool off back at the water park!
2. Step Back in Time at the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site
Less than an hour away, the Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm brings prehistoric Southern Utah to life. Kids can walk where real dinosaurs once roamed, see fossilized footprints, and enjoy hands-on exhibits and an indoor fossil prep lab.
🧢 Don’t miss the dino-themed gift shop for a Jurassic souvenir!
3. Splash, Slide & Float at Jellystone Park™ Zion
Of course, the #1 kid-approved attraction is right here at the park.
From waterslides and splash zones to Yogi Bear™ pool parties and weekend activities, there’s never a dull moment.
Parents can relax in shaded cabanas or cool off in the lazy-river-style pool while kids burn energy and make new friends.
4. Ride the Dunes at Sand Hollow State Park
Just 20 minutes from Jellystone Park™, Sand Hollow is a paradise for adventure-loving families.
Rent a UTV or ATV for an unforgettable ride over the red-sand dunes, or enjoy swimming and paddleboarding in the clear blue reservoir.
Local outfitters offer guided family tours perfect for beginners — no experience needed!
5. Visit the Butterfly House & Petting Zoo in Hurricane
A hidden gem just minutes away, this attraction combines animal encounters and colorful butterflies under one roof.
Kids can feed goats, hold parrots, and walk among free-flying butterflies. It’s educational, fun, and makes for the cutest vacation photos!
Make Jellystone Park™ Zion Your Family Basecamp
From dinosaur digs to desert dunes, every adventure near Zion National Park starts with a comfy, family-friendly stay at Jellystone Park™ Zion.
With spacious cabins, RV sites, pools, playgrounds, and Yogi Bear™ surprises, it’s the ultimate home base for exploring Southern Utah.